Oil fields see increasing worker deaths in Pennsylvania

A worker is constantly worried about suffering some form of injury if his or her workplace is hazardous. Yet, faced with the need to earn a living, the worker is often left with no choice but to continue working, disregarding the possibilities of a workplace accident.

In an industry that witnesses frequent workplace accidents, injuries and fatalities, it is a very serious issue. For example, in the oil field industry in Pennsylvania, there has been an increase by 300 percent in oil field fatalities suffered by workers from 2008 to 2012, according to a recent study, compared with the five years preceding 2008.

Not only can an on-the-job injury or an occupational disease be severe enough to rob the worker of his or her life, but even if the worker is fortunate enough to survive an injury illness in the workplace, the financial burden of lost wages, medical expenses, or rehabilitation in that situation may be too challenging. It is under such circumstances that the need for workers' compensation is so important, whether it is paid by the employer directly or by the insurance company.

The unsafe conditions in oil fields along with hazardous activities like fracking may be deemed responsible for such workplace injuries. The government officials, organizations like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, as well as safety advocates, have prescribed stricter safety rules in workplaces and more stringent compliance to address this problem.

Meanwhile, if an injured worker hopes to obtain compensation from his or her employer or insurer, the best option may be to consult an experienced legal professional with knowledge in that area. They could assist them with investigation, filings and claims while also ensuring their best interest and rights and protected.

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